DAD HORRIFICALLY MURDERS HIS TWO CHILDREN

A 15-year-old boy and his 13-year-old sister were shot at the West Pennant Hills home they shared with their 36-year-old mother who was treated for severe shock after arriving at the scene.

WHO WAS THE KILLER?

The children's father John Edwards, 68, who lived in nearby Normanhurst. Police say the parents' long-term relationship had broken down and a custody battle had been ongoing for about two years.

HOW WERE THE CHILDREN FOUND?

Neighbours heard gunshots in Hull Rd, a quiet suburban street, about 5.20pm on Thursday and called police and paramedics. Emergency services found the children dead in their bedrooms.

WHEN WAS THE FATHER FOUND?

The father's body was found in his home in the early hours of Friday but police believe he took his life shortly after murdering his children.

HOW DID HE ACQUIRE THE MURDER WEAPONS?

It's unclear exactly how, but he had at least four guns. Police say two 'quite powerful' pistols used in the murder and subsequent suicide were acquired legally this year and the murder was premeditated.